Behavior, attitudes and knowledge of healthcare workers about breastfeeding

Abstract

Breastfeeding is undoubtedly the best food for newborns and infants. In the process of breastfeeding, the child establishes the foundations of attachment, on which he will build the foundations of all subsequent relationships. Breastfeeding has health benefits for the mother. The invitation to participate in this research was answered by a small number of men in terms of gender, and doctors in terms of profession. The results of the research show in general scarce participation of health professionals in education about breastfeeding (frequently/regularly less than 20%). Counseling parents on exclusive and complete breastfeeding is often contrary to UNICEF/WHO guidelines. The worst responses of healthcare workers on the scale of attitudes are regarding breastfeeding in a public place, acceptance of breastfeeding as a fundamental human relationship and the role of the father in supporting the breastfeeding mother. On the scale of knowledge, the worst responses are regarding knowledge of the legal regulation of public advertising of breast milk substitutes, stopping breastfeeding when the mother is febrile or taking some medication, the importance of rooming in and the need to stop breastfeeding when the child starts nursery/kindergarten. Breastfeeding education for future healthcare workers during their education should be improved. In working with healthcare professionals who are already employed, work should be done to raise awareness of the obligation to provide information about breastfeeding in accordance with WHO/UNICEF recommendations. Parents who have already decided to breastfeed their child have the right to continuous support during the entire period of breastfeeding. To achieve the goals of the WHO/UNICEF in 2030, only positive developments in the health system will not be enough, but at the level of the entire society